Jennifer Michelle (Penick) Gongora

Jennifer Michelle (Penick) Gongora, 45, of Gause, Texas, formerly of Hearne, dearly beloved wife, mother, sister and grandmother went to be with her Lord & Savior Sunday, March 17, 2024. 

Born in Bryan, Texas to Patricia Anne Perez and Jimmy Allen Penick, Jennifer was one of three children.  She was raised and educated in Hearne schools, later graduating through homeschool.  Around that time Jennifer met Paul Anthony Gongora, the love of her life, they married on June 2, 1995 and enjoyed 28 loving years together.  They made their home in Gause and joyously welcomed Cristen, Ashley and David, into the world. 

An incredible homemaker, Jennifer could do anything she put her mind to.  She worked in her dad’s tire shop growing up and later, a waitress, a caregiver, coach, mother and homemaker.  Many years of Jennifer’s life were spent on a football field or track coaching, encouraging and cheering, always guiding and mentoring kids.  Quick to feed, clothe, and nurture, Jennifer welcomed anyone in need to her home with open arms, often offering anything she had.  

Jennifer was passionate about animals.  Every trail ride she was on a horse, every walk she had a dog, and every trip she took she made time to admire God’s creations.  There wasn’t a time in her life that she didn’t have animals, giving them all the affection in the world.  She loved every one of them but her two standouts were her beloved dog, Kita and her horse, Dusty.  Anytime she wasn’t with Dusty, Kita was by her side.  

From skydiving, riding motorcycles and rollercoasters, to swimming in the ocean, Jennifer had a flare for adventure and was always ready for more!  Her collections of souvenirs and photos were priceless in her eyes.  More than just memories, they were ties to every person she shared them with.

Jennifer had a smile and laugh that were contagious, often spreading like wildfire in the presence of those around her.  You couldn’t help but smile when near her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved brother, James Allen Penick; grandparents, Joyce Laferne and John A. Florida Jr., Emma Sue and Jeff Travis Penick; uncle, Christopher Florida; and brother-in-law, Alexander Ybarra.

Left to cherish her memory, the love of her life, Paul; her beloved children, Cristen Marie Eaker and husband, Johnny, Ashley Anne Grosshans and husband, Donald, David Anthony Gongora and wife, Ila Mckinzie Tussey; her mother, Patricia Anne Florida; and father, Jimmy Allen Penick;  sister, Penny Lee Vega; mother & father-in-law, Mary and Jlynn Grace; aunts, Sherry White and Linda DuBois` Wetterhus, Robin Penick Funderburk, Sue Penick Rowan and Marie Gray; uncles, John Florida III, and Joe Penick; brothers-in-law, Michael Ybarra, Gerold Grace, Jonathan Grace and wife, Lin;  cherished granddaughters, Jessie Lynn & Emma Joy Eaker, and Ila Elaina Gongora; along with many treasured nieces, nephews & cousins; and her beloved dog, Ace.

Her love was radiant, she was exceptionally unique and one of a kind.  Jennifer saw and accepted people for who they truly were in their purest forms.  She will be deeply missed, celebrated, remembered and talked about often.  Her legacy of love will live on through everyone's life she touched.

Jennifer’s family extend their gratitude and appreciation for all the prayers, love, support, meals, and any other kindnesses shown to us during this difficult time. We ask for your continued prayers. May God bless and walk with each and every one of you.